The term 'Symbolism' was first used in reference to which field around 1886?

The term 'Symbolism' was first used in reference to which field around 1886?

• A. French literature and poetry
• B. Visual arts
• C. Music
• D. Architecture

Answer: (A)

Symbolism as a label was first applied to French poetry in the 1880s. In 1886, the critic Jean Moréas published a Symbolist Manifesto in Le Figaro, outlining a poetic program that used symbols and suggestion to convey inner states and truths beyond literal description. This places the origin in French literature and poetry, even though symbolist ideas soon spread to painting, music, and other arts. The early, formal use of the term came from poetry, not from the other fields.

Symbolism as a label was first applied to French poetry in the 1880s. In 1886, the critic Jean Moréas published a Symbolist Manifesto in Le Figaro, outlining a poetic program that used symbols and suggestion to convey inner states and truths beyond literal description. This places the origin in French literature and poetry, even though symbolist ideas soon spread to painting, music, and other arts. The early, formal use of the term came from poetry, not from the other fields.